History

The Frankfurt Parliament, convened amidst the 1848 revolutions, embodied liberal and nationalist aspirations in Germany. Formed to draft a unified German constitution, it faced monarchic opposition and internal divisions. Women’s rights were debated but not implemented. Despite its suppression, its legacy endured, paving the way for future liberal and nationalist movements and Germany’s eventual unification in 1871.

The Congress of Vienna in 1815 aimed to reconstruct Europe after Napoleon’s defeat, prioritising stability. It restored monarchies, balanced power, and promoted conservatism. Key decisions included territorial adjustments and the establishment of buffer states. While it maintained peace for nearly a century, it also fueled future nationalist movements, shaping European history profoundly.

Frédéric Sorrieu, a French artist active in 1848, depicted utopian visions of worldwide democratic republics. His series of prints, “The Dream of Worldwide Democratic and Social Republics,” celebrated national unity, symbolically opposing absolutism. Sorrieu’s legacy lies in his powerful portrayal of liberty and democracy, inspiring aspirations for freedom and national unity in the 19th century.

Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, German scholars, collected folklore, publishing “Grimm’s Fairy Tales” including “Cinderella” and “Hansel and Gretel.” Their work preserved German culture, fostering nationalism by instilling national pride and unity. Additionally, their linguistic contributions, though incomplete, left a lasting impact on German philology. Their tales, translated worldwide, influenced global folklore and cultural heritage.

Romanticism, explored in Class 10’s chapter on “The Rise of Nationalism in Europe,” highlights its role in fostering nationalism. It emphasised emotion, individualism, and cultural heritage, bridging personal feelings with national identity. Through artists like Delacroix and figures like the Grimm brothers, Romanticism celebrated folklore, history, and language, shaping a collective European identity amidst nationalist struggles.